Senior Backend Engineer (Node.js / TypeScript / MongoDB / AWS) | Remote | 6 month Contract to go Perm at Datafin Recruitment

ENVIRONMENT:

• Our client is seeking a highly experienced Senior Backend Software Engineer to independently lead and deliver customer-facing software projects from initial discovery through implementation, documentation and handover.
• This is a hands-on role suited to a self-driven professional who can take ownership of project outcomes, make sound technical decisions and maintain delivery momentum with minimal day-to-day supervision.
• Based in South Africa, the successful candidate will work remotely during hours aligned with New York and engage directly with US customers. The role requires the ability to translate business requirements into clear technical specifications, manage end-to-end project delivery and develop robust backend solutions while meeting strict deadlines.

DUTIES:

• Manage customer projects end to end, including discovery, planning, estimation, specification, development, testing, deployment, documentation and handover.
• Manage workload, priorities, risks, dependencies and delivery commitments independently, with minimal supervision.
• Engage directly with customers and stakeholders to understand business requirements, clarify ambiguity, provide progress updates and manage expectations professionally.
• Translate customer requirements into clear, practical technical specifications, acceptance criteria and implementation plans.
• Design, develop and maintain secure, scalable and reliable backend services, integrations, APIs and data-processing workflows.
• Coordinate project activities and ensure delivery remains on track against agreed milestones and strict deadlines.
• Produce clear, accurate and up-to-date technical documentation, including solution designs, specifications, implementation notes, operational guidance and customer handover materials.
• Test, deploy and validate solutions, take ownership of production outcomes and resolve issues promptly.
• Use Claude and other relevant AI tools effectively, identifying practical opportunities to incorporate AI into engineering, documentation and delivery workflows while maintaining quality, security and appropriate human oversight.
• Improve engineering processes, development standards and delivery practices, and share knowledge with the wider team.

Main Technology Stack

• JavaScript / TypeScript
• Node.js
• Docker
• MongoDB
• AWS

REQUIREMENTS:

• A bachelor’s degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, Engineering or a related field is preferable.
• Sound knowledge of software engineering fundamentals, algorithms, testing, security and maintainable system design.
• At least four years of professional experience working with JavaScript/TypeScript and Node.js.
• Strong senior-level software engineering experience, with substantial hands-on expertise in backend development.
• Proven experience building complex backend services, APIs, integrations and data-processing solutions.
• Strong client-facing experience, including facilitating discovery sessions, discussing technical options and communicating project progress and delivery risks clearly.
• Practical experience using AI tools, with a clear understanding of how to incorporate AI into workflows responsibly and effectively.
• Ability and willingness to work consistently during New York business hours while based in South Africa.